Unlike the razmatazz which usually occasioned his previous coronation and birthday anniversaries, d ever likeable king Gushi, as he's often fondly called. Surprised many when he built donated a multipurpose and fully-equipped Lagos History Research Centre in the Lagos State University, LASU, Ojo Lagos to commemorate his 13 years coronation anniversary of ascending the throne of his forefathers.
The research center named after his beloved father; Oba Yekini Adeniyi Elegushi (Kusenla II) of blessed memory, the study centre for Lagos Studies will serve as a research institute for the study of the socio-cultural, economic as well as the political development of the state since it’s incipient days and hub for organizing seminars, workshops and conferences for issues relating to Lagos for the purpose of policy formulation.
The centre is expected to bring people face to face with history, culture, geographical location and socio-economic activities of the people of Lagos across all the five divisions, since pre-European contact and to correct the misinformation and misrepresentation of the various groups and communities in the state especially on the erroneous view point that “Lagos is no man’s land” (Gbogbo wa la leko…we all own Lagos).
This perception, is indeed a contradiction to the popular cliché among the indigenous elements of ‘Gedegbe l'Eko wa' (Lagos Stands alone). Historically, the first assumption rests on a misconception rather than on facts of history.
Interestingly, LASU happens to be his ala matar, where he graduated many years ago in flying colours. This is indeed a laudable and very exemplary achievement for a king with knack and affinity for his people nay subjects even outside his domain, especially in the area of education.
The best way to correct this glitch is through knowledge dissemination and display of historical artefacts. It is in this quest for such a reputable centre that Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi’s vision is commendable.
